Overview
Features and Benefits
- Wide VIN Range: 4.5V to 38V
- VOUT1: 0.6V to 5.5V, ±0.67% Output Regulation Accuracy, with Internal 0.6V VREFERENCE
- VOUT2: 0.4V to 5.5V, ±4mV Regulation Accuracy, with Differential External VREFERENCE Sensing
- Differential Remote Output Sensing; Up to ±500mV (VOUT1) and ±200mV (VOUT2) Ground Deviations
- Fast Load Transient Response Without Clock Delay
- Detect Transient Release (DTR) Reduces VOUT Overshoot
- Frequency Programmable from 200kHz to 2MHz, Synchronizable to External Clock
- tON(MIN) = 30ns, tOFF(MIN) = 90ns
- RSENSE or Inductor DCR Current Sensing
- Overvoltage Protection and Current Limit Foldback
- Power Good Output Voltage Monitor
- Thermally Enhanced 38-Pin (5mm × 7mm) QFN Package
Product Details
The LTC3838-2 is a dual-channel, PolyPhase® synchronous step-down DC/DC switching regulator controller. Two independent channels drive all N-channel power MOSFETs. The two channels can also be combined into a multiphase single output configuration with external reference.
The controlled on-time, valley current mode control architecture allows for not only fast response to transients without a clock delay, but also constant frequency switching at a steady-load condition. Its proprietary load-release transient detection feature (DTR) significantly reduces overshoot at low output voltages.
The switching frequency can be programmed from 200kHz to 2MHz with an external resistor, and can be synchronized to an external clock. Very low tON and tOFF times allow for near 0% and near 100% duty cycles, respectively. Voltage tracking soft start-up and multiple safety features are provided.
See below for a comparison of LTC3838, LTC3838-1 and LTC3838-2.
Part Number | Description |
LTC3838 | ±0.67% Differential Output Voltage Accuracy Over Temperature on Channel 1, ±1% Output Regulation on Channel 2, Separate Per Channel 30mV to 100mV Current Sense Range Controls |
LTC3838-1 | ±0.67% Differential Output Voltage Accuracy Over Temperature on Both Channel 1 and Channel 2, Single Pin 30mV/60mV Current Sense Range Controls |
LTC3838-2 | ±0.67% Differential Output Voltage Accuracy With Internal Reference on Channel 1, ±4mV Differential with External Reference Voltage on Channel 2, Fixed 30mV Current Sense Range |
Applications
- Power for ASICs with Dynamic Voltage Scaling
- Low Voltage, High Current, High Step-Down Ratio Converters That Demand Tight Transient Regulation
Product Lifecycle
Recommended for New Designs
This product has been released to the market. The data sheet contains all final specifications and operating conditions. For new designs, ADI recommends utilization of these products.
Evaluation Kits (1)
Documentation & Resources
-
R526 Reliability Data3/26/2018
-
DC1997A - Demo Manual2/15/2013
Tools & Simulations
LTspice
LTspice® is a powerful, fast and free simulation software, schematic capture and waveform viewer with enhancements and models for improving the simulation of analog circuits.
To launch ready-to-run LTspice demonstration circuits for this part:
Step 1: Download and install LTspice on your computer.
Step 2: Click on the link in the section below to download a demonstration circuit.
Step 3: If LTspice does not automatically open after clicking the link below, you can instead run the simulation by right clicking on the link and selecting “Save Target As.” After saving the file to your computer, start LTspice and open the demonstration circuit by selecting ‘Open’ from the ‘File’ menu.

Models for the following parts are available in LTspice:
LTpowerCAD
LTpowerCAD® is a power supply design program which selects power stage components, provides detailed power efficiency, shows quick loop Bode plot stability and load transient analysis, and can export to LTspice for simulation.

Design tools for the following parts are available in LTpowerCAD:
Product Recommendations
LTC3838-2 Companion Parts
Design Resources
ADI has always placed the highest emphasis on delivering products that meet the maximum levels of quality and reliability. We achieve this by incorporating quality and reliability checks in every scope of product and process design, and in the manufacturing process as well. "Zero defects" for shipped products is always our goal.View our quality and reliability program and certifications for more information.
Part Number | Material Declaration | Reliability Data | Pin/Package Drawing | CAD Symbols, Footprints & 3D Models |
---|---|---|---|---|
LTC3838EUHF-2#PBF | Material Declaration | Reliability Data | 38-Lead QFN (5mm x 7mm w/ EP) | |
LTC3838EUHF-2#TRPBF | Material Declaration | Reliability Data | 38-Lead QFN (5mm x 7mm w/ EP) | |
LTC3838IUHF-2#PBF | Material Declaration | Reliability Data | 38-Lead QFN (5mm x 7mm w/ EP) | |
LTC3838IUHF-2#TRPBF | Material Declaration | Reliability Data | 38-Lead QFN (5mm x 7mm w/ EP) | |
Wafer Fabrication Data | R526 Reliability Data |
Support & Discussions
Sample & Buy
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Buy Now Pricing
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List Pricing
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Lead Times
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Sampling
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Evaluation Boards
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Up to two boards can be purchased through Analog.com. To order more than two, please purchase through one of our listed distributors.
Pricing displayed is based on 1-piece. The USA list pricing shown is for budgetary use only, shown in United States dollars (FOB USA per unit), and is subject to change. International prices may vary due to local duties, taxes, fees and exchange rates.